The Best Age at which to Marry: What Are the Problems?

The Best Age at which to Marry

What Are the Problems?

Research has determined specific characteristics of people who marry early. Many scientists predict
there will be catastrophic drawbacks to both the individuals and our society. (Read Wilcox, W.
Bradford and Hamilton.”Why Marriage Matters.” State of Our Unions. 2001).

Obviously there is a need to educate young people about the adverse consequences of early marriage. It has been documented that young women who give birth outside of marriage, and their children  suffer the most. Usually these women, on the average, are younger, have less education, and have lower incomes than those who are married. Children born of unwed or teen  parents are more likely to live in poverty and have more developmental  issues.

 I would suggest reading Academic and Behavioral Outcomes Among Children of Young Mothers by Levine, Pollock, and Comfort to understand the devastating effects young mothers could have on their children’s lives. Subsequently, who would ever deny a child the right to a healthier and more productive life?


I concede that when young people fall deeply and passionately in love and have the maturity to realize that in order for their marriage to succeed, there should be open and honest communication, a willingness to change one’s ideas, or at the very least, the ability to compromise.

Be that as it may, there are definite advantages for those who wait to get married. Startling evidence and data prove being married at a later age has more positive outcomes on family stability, women’s mental and physical health, and children’s development.

Live simply.

Speak softly.

Love unconditionally.